Hunt for the Golden Scarab
Sim’s mum works as a cleaner at Sir John Soane’s Museum where the two live in the attic flat. They never stay anywhere for long but, for the first time, Sim is attending the local school instead of being homeschooled. When some sinister strangers appear at the museum one night, Sim is left with even more unanswered questions about who his mum is- and what she is hiding from. Learning that she has the power to open doors in time, he finds himself on the adventure of a lifetime to locate the golden heart scarab of Nefertiti before the mysterious Council of Keys lay their hands on it- and him.
Combining all the classic elements of exciting adventure story with time travel, ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’ is a fast-moving, action-packed romp of a read, rich in historical and locational details which will leave readers desperate for more. It is also one of those books which is so hard to review without spoiling for others!
Sim’s adventure starts in London before taking him to Egypt – ancient and modern. With his school friend, Nelson, supporting him at home and his newly found cousin, Jeopardy, accompanying him on his travels, well developed characters are a real strength of this story, including the adults. Sim’s mother, Callidora, has brought her son up on her own and is portrayed as strong (physically and mentally), capable and resourceful, facilitating her son’s development and taking an active part in the story rather than being killed off, kidnapped or somehow lost along the way. Similarly, her brother, Emmett, who she warns Sim is untrustworthy, is far more nuanced than many adults in children’s stories, enriching the plot and promising more in future books.
Locations are also well developed and engaging, sure to spark curiosity and interest. Sir John Soane’s Museum is a fascinating place, crammed with treasures, well worth visiting and yet, perhaps, one of London’s less well-known attractions. Details about Sir John and other historic places and events mentioned in the story are offered in Nelson’s ‘Time Traveller’s Diary’, included at the end of the book. Tutankhamun’s tomb and places in Egypt are also carefully described and there is a ‘Key’s Guide to Ancient Egypt’ which helps to explain some of the key figures and events relating to that part of the action.
A love of music and a fascination with history permeate the story, enhancing the reader’s enjoyment of this epic adventure!
Time Keys: Hunt for the Golden Scarab
M G Leonard, illustrated by Manuel Šumberac
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035005963
Publication date: 30th January 2025
You can read my review of The Arctic Railway Assassin here and Sabotage on the Solar Express here.
